Senior Estimator (Underground Utilities)
Company Overview
Our client is a well-established contractor with decades of experience delivering critical infrastructure projects across the Western U.S. The organization specializes in utility-focused construction, including underground electrical distribution, gas systems, telecommunications, and related civil work. Known for its strong client relationships and consistent project execution, the company supports major utility providers and infrastructure owners on complex, high-visibility programs.
Position Summary
The company is seeking a Lead / Senior Estimator with the ability to contribute across both preconstruction and project execution. This role is responsible for leading competitive bid efforts while also supporting successful delivery of awarded work. The position requires ownership of estimating strategy, cost development, risk evaluation, and coordination with internal teams, subcontractors, and clients.
This individual will play a key role in both winning and delivering underground utility projects, acting as a central point of coordination between estimating, operations, and external stakeholders.
Compensation & Benefits:
This position offers a competitive base salary in the range of $170,000–$190,000, depending on experience and qualifications, along with a full suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, retirement plan options, paid time off, Company Vehicle or Allowance and additional company-sponsored programs.
This position will be based in their Inland Empire location. This is not a remote position. Hybrid may be considered.
Reports To: Division Leadership
Key Responsibilities
Estimating & Preconstruction
- Lead quantity takeoffs, production analysis, and cost development for underground utility scopes, including:
- Electrical distribution (primary/secondary systems, duct banks, vaults, manholes, joint trench)
- Gas distribution (mains, services, tie-ins)
- Develop comprehensive estimates using historical cost data, labor/equipment productivity, and market pricing
- Establish bid strategies, including schedule development, logistics planning, and risk identification
- Solicit and evaluate subcontractor and supplier proposals; perform scope leveling and pricing negotiations
- Prepare detailed proposals, including scope clarifications, exclusions, and value engineering alternatives
- Participate in site visits, constructability reviews, and coordination with utility locating services (e.g., One Call/811)
Project Execution Support
- Assist in project startup activities, including budget finalization, work breakdown structures, and baseline schedules
- Support ongoing project controls including cost tracking, forecasting, and change management
- Coordinate with field teams on submittals, RFIs, permitting, traffic control, and environmental requirements
- Ensure compliance with safety programs, quality standards, and applicable regulatory requirements
- Maintain strong communication with clients, inspectors, and governing agencies to support project delivery
Leadership & Process Improvement
- Mentor and support junior estimators and project staff
- Standardize estimating practices, cost structures, and production assumptions
- Improve internal tools such as bid templates, cost reports, and tracking systems
- Collaborate with safety and operations teams to reinforce best practices and proactive planning
Qualifications
- 10–15+ years of experience in estimating and/or managing underground utility construction projects (electric and/or gas distribution)
- Demonstrated success in both competitive bidding and project execution
- Strong technical understanding of:
- Trenching, shoring, and excavation
- Duct bank systems, vaults, and manholes
- Joint trench coordination
- Gas system installation and tie-ins
- Paving/restoration and traffic control
- Horizontal directional drilling (HDD) or microtrenching (preferred)
- Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements (utility owner specifications, One Call/811, OSHA or equivalent; public utility commission knowledge is a plus)
- Strong financial and operational acumen, including budgeting, cost tracking, earned value, and forecasting
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and client-facing skills
Technical Skills
- Experience with estimating and project management software such as:
- HeavyBid, B2W, or similar platforms
- Bluebeam
- InEight or equivalent
- Microsoft Excel
- Scheduling tools (MS Project or Primavera P6)
- ERP system experience (e.g., Spectrum or similar) is a plus
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- Valid driver’s license
- OSHA 30 certification preferred
- First Aid/CPR certification preferred
- Additional credentials such as Gas Operator Qualification (OQ) or traffic control certifications are a plus
Work Environment
- Ability to perform site visits in active construction environments
- Capable of navigating uneven terrain and entering confined spaces (as permitted)
- Flexibility to support occasional night or weekend work as required by project schedules
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The company is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.